Sunshine Clinic: A Novel with Recipes By Meera Ekkanath Klein (Book Review #1926)

“Sunshine Clinic: A Novel with Recipes” by Meera Ekkanath Klein is a heartwarming conclusion to a family saga that started with “My Mother’s Kitchen” and its sequel, “Seeing Ceremony.” This stand-alone novel follows Thangam, affectionately nicknamed Sunny, as she returns to her childhood home in Mahagiri after the gruelling years of medical school.

Sunny’s story begins with a nostalgic memory of her favourite yellow slicker and a chance encounter with a new boy at school, who nicknames her “Sunny.” This boy reappears later in her life as Callum McPhearson, the handsome Scotsman who captures her heart.

Sunny decides to settle in Mahagiri instead of pursuing a career in a big city hospital. As a village doctor, she faces various challenges, including her first case involving a young girl with epilepsy. With the help of Bhadra, a local woman who claims to be a spokesperson for the Goddess, Sunny navigates the complexities of village life and provides much-needed medical care to the villagers.

The novel is rich with emotionally charged situations, such as the heartbreaking death of a young boy mauled by a jaguar and the misdiagnosis of a middle-aged woman who believes she is pregnant but actually has a tumour. These stories showcase Sunny’s dedication and compassion as she works to improve the lives of those around her.

In a secondary plot, Sunny’s burgeoning romance with Callum is tested by misunderstandings and external complications, including the unexpected appearance of Callum’s ex-girlfriend, Ella. Despite the emotional turmoil, Sunny remains focused on her duties, especially when her sister Meena faces pregnancy complications, and her housekeeper and beloved dog are attacked by a deranged drug addict.

The novel’s resolution is humorous and heartwarming, as Callum follows the village tradition of proposing to Sunny by offering her a cow and proposing in front of the entire village. His willingness to embrace Sunny’s culture and traditions solidifies their bond, leading to a memorable and laugh-out-loud ending.

“Sunshine Clinic” delivers an engaging and emotional narrative and tantalizes the senses with delicious food descriptions and bonus recipes. Meera Ekkanath Klein masterfully weaves together love, family, and cultural heritage themes, making this novel a delightful and unforgettable read.

Written by Jeyran Main
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